What to Pack in Hospital Bag

What to pack in hospital bag?

Expecting mothers need to start preparing themselves for the big day as soon as from the 7 month of pregnancy. However, if you are thinking about what to pack in hospital bag, consider the idea that the packing of the hospital bags can be done earlier it will be of great relief as the last few months are more painful and inconvenient for shopping out. If you are packing a few months earlier, keep in mind the expected date of delivery. The seasons/temperature will not be as it is right now. So if you are due when it will be hotter or cold, plan and pack accordingly. Some of the essential items to pack in the hospital bag are as follows:

For the expecting mother hospital bag checklist:

Sanitary pads: - what else to pack in hospital bag? Maternity pads are very important considering the frequency at which it’ll get used up after delivery. Maternity pads are a bit bigger and bulky but this is what you will need immediately after the delivery. They are usually provided by the hospitals but it is always a wise idea to have your maternity sanitary pads in your bags. A few days after delivery or when you are back home, you can switch back to your usual brand and type. It is also convenient to have some stock ready for use. You will need them for about the first four weeks. Bleeding will gradually decrease.

Spare clothes. Used, old but wearable sleep gowns would be highly recommended during labour. Old underwear would also be most welcome in your what to pack in hospital bag checklist. New one may get messy and unwearable. You will also need appropriate clothes after delivery to enable nursing and to feel comfortable after such an enduring experience. Normally, there are nursing bras on sale. Also, don’t forget to take a going home outfit. The season will also play a big role. If it is planned for winter, you would better include winter wears in your bag.

Breast pads may be a necessity but if you are planning to breastfeed your child (which is very much recommended) you may do without it in your kit for immediate use. However, i f you are a working mom then for future use you can buy some so that it absorbs the excess milk oozing from your breasts. This avoids embarrassment especially if you are in a public place.

What to pack in hospital bag for Personal hygiene items: Toothbrush, Toothpaste, soap, hair brush, usual creams etc.:- you might be surprised at how re-vigorated you may feel after a nice warm bath and fixing yourself. You will need these items which make you feel as before.

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For the baby - hospital bag checklist:-

Clothes- warm clothes for the new-born is a must. Legging or little warm shoes are the most welcome together with baby hat. One going home outfit as well as a warm blanket.

Diapers- another must what to pack in hospital bag checklist item.

Feeding Bottles may be required during the first few days. Especially if you feel too weak to feed the baby.

However, do note that feeding bottles and infant milk formulas are not advised by specialists. Breast feeding milk contains vitamins and minerals as well antibodies. Breast milk also keeps the child from becoming overweight is digested very easily. Formulas are expensive and are only limited imitations of the mother’s natural milk.

Hospital bag checklist - Item checklist for the baby:

Baby clothing items

Socks

Caps

Wipes (for cleaning the baby)

Diapers

Feeding bottle

Feeding bottle cleaning set

Milk Formula (just in case)

Baby lotion

Mini blanket

Baby towels

Hospital bag checklist - Item checklist for the expecting mum:

Gowns

Warm clothes (if you expect cold temperature)

Suitable underwear

Maternity pads

Breast pads

Toothbrush

Toothpaste

Soap

Towels (take a few extra as you have vomiting)

Paper towel

Disposable plastic mugs/plates

Make up items

Bottle of water

Some suitable biscuits

A mobile phone and its charger

You don’t need to buy too much quantity of each item. Evaluate the need for what to pack in your hospital bag and so that you can buy with moderation. Most of these items will be provided at the hospital you are expecting to go. Enquire with the staff when you are booking your hospital room. It is still wise to have these items packed just in case you are admitted to another hospital in case of emergencies. You must also remember that such items are also received as gifts in baby kits. So buying too many of an item and receiving similar products as gifts does not sound economical.

There are many more items related to pregnancy that you need to buy for home use. Getting the baby’s room ready and acquiring all its products is yet another big list on which you must work along with your partner.